Will getting a dog make me feel less depressed? I'm against drugs and want something to make me feel better.
You'll get overwhelmed by all of your new responsibilities, then end up mistreating or neglecting your dog. Fix the underlying cause of your "depression" first before you commit to getting a pet
>>2162646
You ought to go to /fit/. Exercising is a great way to combat depression, because you get a boost of endorphins (natural high to combat chemical depression) and you begin building up more testosterone (more if you're a guy, but still a noticeable bit if you're a girl) which boosts your confidence/assertiveness (combats psychological depression). I was on a buncha meds for depression before that only served to kill my libido, which made me even more depressed. I decided to go walking around the neighborhood every day and slowly segued into jogging, and added lifting afterwards. I felt much better.
>>2162651
This. I'd say start getting in shape, and then get a dog once you start to feel a bit better. Use your dog as motivation to continue feeling better/to go walking every day.
>>2162646
Pretty solid advice from other anons - a dog is a big commitment for the duration of its life, and it's not a feels-based decision to take lightly. It will all be based on if you can personally turn yourself around - if you can, a doggo companion to help you go further could be the best thing in the world. If not, it'll just be even more miserable for both you and the dog.
t. someone also going through that inital phase of sorting myself out before I get the pupper treatment
A dog is a commitment but maybe that's what you need. I know when I'm down having a little retarded fluff waiting for me at home keeps me going.
I say go for it, just understand that this is a life you're putting in your hands. Take care of it and it will take carr of you.
Two things can happen:
1) As other anon have said, you get massively overwhelmed and your pupper suffers for it.
2) The pup gives you a sense of purpose, and a reason to live. Knowing you have another creature depending on you for its comfort and happiness is powerful.
That being said, it's impossible to know how you'll feel. I agree with the other anons: get your life on track and then get a pup.